St. Ambrose University at the Mount Mercy campus located in Cedar Rapids, IA is seeking a Director of the Center for the Common Good. This position is responsible for engaging Mount Mercy students, staff, and faculty in upholding the inherent dignity and worth of each and every member of the campus community. The director of the Center for the Common Good will work to ensure that everyone feels safe in their identity and welcome and engaged on campus. This position will work with campus and community resources to ensure that Mercy hospitality extends to all people on our campus. In accordance with our mission and Mercy values, the director will help to promote the formation of mercy-oriented and justice-seeking students who can collaborate with local and global partners.
This position is responsible for leading the implementation of our Culture, Community, and Inclusion Strategic Action Plan. It is also responsible for multicultural student and international student persistence initiatives such as a vibrant calendar of critical concerns and culturally rich programming, mentoring student organizations, and being up to date on changes to relevant federal and state policies. This person also serves as an institutional designee responsible for communication with international students and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Office (USCIS), and coordinates reporting requirements through SEVIS, including serving as a DSO (Designated School Official).
Key Responsibilities
- In collaboration with faculty, staff, and students provides an overall vision of a community at the Mount Mercy campus that serves and advances the common good; promotes the formation of mercy-oriented and justice-seeking students; works to integrate themes of the critical concerns into coursework at the undergraduate and graduate level.
- Establishes an overall vision for multicultural and international student services including implementation of a wide variety of campus events, programs, and groups.
- Assists the Director of International Recruitment with all aspects of new international student transition to Mount Mercy.
- Conducts an on-going assessment of the campus climate as it relates to the feeling of a sense of belonging among multicultural and international student populations.
- Supervises all processing and maintenance of student records associated with student visas, including ensuring proper and timely reporting to the Department of Homeland Security through the SEVIS database (UNCIS and INS). Advises current international students on immigration and SEVIS regulation, including but not limited to, I-20’s and visa applications procedures and deadlines.
- Partners with the Mission and Ministry Department on programming and activities grounded in our Catholic and Mercy charisms. Connects with associations to support the integration of mission, heritage, and identity through organizations such as the Association of Catholic Colleges & Universities (ACCU) and the Conference for Mercy Higher Education (CMHE).
- Manages budgets for assigned programs.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- Five years or more of successful experience with a college student population.
- Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Knowledge of current non-immigration regulations and SEVIS procedures preferred.
- Ability to meet Department of Homeland Security requirements to serve as a Designated School Official is required. https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/designated-school-official (for reference).
- A valid driver’s license is required.
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and retirement plans.
- Generous paid time off and holidays.
- Tuition Remission.
- Professional development opportunities.
- Supportive and collaborative work environment.
- Access to campus amenities, cultural events, and recreational facilities.
At St. Ambrose University, Mount Mercy campus we are more than an institution of higher learning; we are a beacon for those seeking to impact the world significantly. Guided by our foundation beliefs and values, our mission and vision reflect our dedication to fostering an inclusive, ethical, and dynamic learning environment.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit your resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references though our online application portal at https://stambroseuniv.applicantlist.com. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
The University is an equal opportunity employer and smoke-free campus.